UK Minister Calls US–Iran Negotiation Stalemate ‘Disappointing’ and Criticises Trump’s ‘Extraordinary’ Remarks
UK Health Minister Wes Streeting has described the lack of progress in recent United States–Iran negotiations as “disappointing,” following stalled discussions aimed at de-escalating tensions and finding a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict.
Speaking to Sky News, Streeting expressed concern that diplomatic efforts held in Islamabad had not yet produced a meaningful breakthrough.
“It’s obviously disappointing that we haven’t yet seen a breakthrough in negotiations and an end to this war in Iran that is a sustainable one,” he said, while still emphasizing that diplomacy must continue despite setbacks.
He added that international negotiations are often a long and uncertain process, noting, “As ever in diplomacy, you’re failing until you succeed. So while these talks may not have ended in success, that doesn’t mean there isn’t merit in continuing to try.”
Streeting also addressed recent remarks made by US President Donald Trump during the crisis, describing his social media posts as highly provocative.
“Over the course of the past week, President Trump has said some pretty bold… incendiary, provocative, outrageous things on social media,” he said.
He further commented on Trump’s statement suggesting extreme consequences for Iran, calling it “quite extraordinary” and raising concerns about the tone of public diplomatic messaging.
The UK minister also noted the ongoing political tension between President Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer regarding the handling of the Iran situation, with disagreements surfacing over cooperation and approach to the Middle East conflict.
Despite criticism, Streeting stressed that the UK would ultimately judge leaders based on actions rather than rhetoric, reiterating that the only viable path forward is a negotiated agreement that ensures Iran does not develop or acquire nuclear weapons capability.
“Ultimately, the only way in which we’re going to clear this situation up is to reach agreement with Iran, one that puts nuclear weapons beyond its ambitions and reach,” he said.